The secret to a fresh mattress: Deodorizing hacks you need to know

A good night’s sleep is priceless but an unpleasant mattress smell can turn sweet dreams into restless tossing and turning. From sweat odours to that peculiar “new mattress smell,” tackling odours can feel like an uphill battle. But, the good news? Keeping your mattress fresh doesn’t require fancy products or complicated steps. With the right deodorising hacks, you can enjoy a clean, fresh-smelling mattress year-round.

Whether you’re wondering how to get sweat smell out of mattress or dealing with other stubborn odours, this guide has got you covered. Let’s explore the best practices to refresh your mattress and ensure it remains a foundation of comfort and well-being.

Why does your mattress smell?

Before diving into smelly mattress solutions, it’s essential to understand the cause of those pesky odours. A mattress can develop smells due to:

Sweat and body oils: Over time, sweat and body oils released from our body while sleeping can accumulate on the mattress and contribute to a musty odour.

Spills and stains: Accidental spills, whether from drinks, food or even pee, can seep into the mattress layers and result in unsightly stains and unpleasant smells.

Humidity and mould: High moisture levels, especially in summer and monsoon seasons, can lead to the growth of mould or mildew and a musty smell.

New mattress smell: Whether you buy mattress online or in store, you may notice a peculiar smell that often comes from off-gassing of chemicals used in manufacturing.

How to get sweat smell out of mattress?

Sweat is one of the most common culprits behind a smelly mattress. Thankfully, you don’t need industrial cleaners to get rid of it, just these hacks:

Hack #1: Baking soda

Start by removing any bedsheets or mattress protectors and sprinkling baking soda generously across the mattress. Let it sit for 6-8 hours or overnight for deeper deodorizing. The baking soda absorbs odours, leaving your mattress refreshed. Finally, vacuum it off using an upholstery attachment.

Hack #2: DIY vinegar spray

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This combination works wonders for neutralising sweat odours. Lightly mist the solution across the mattress’ surface without soaking it. Allow it to air dry completely. You can accelerate the process by using fans or keeping the mattress under direct sunlight.

How to get smell out of mattress after a spill?

Accidental spills are inevitable, especially if you live with kids or pets. Whether it’s coffee, juice or food, the key is to act fast. Use a clean cloth to blot as much liquid as possible and avoid rubbing as it may push the liquid deeper into the mattress.

Hack #1: DIY cleaning solution

Mix a mild dish soap with water to create suds. Dab the soapy water onto the stain or wherever the drink or food was spilt using a sponge. Follow up with a clean, damp cloth to rinse off the soapy solution. Allow the mattress to air dry completely.

Hack #2: Deodorizing with essential oils

Add a few drops of lavender or tea tree essential oil to baking soda. Then sprinkle the mix on the mattress to remove the smell. Let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming the mattress. Not only will the smell vanish but you’ll also notice a calming scent of the essential oil.

How to get rid of the “new mattress smell”?

Whether you buy mattress online or in a store, you may notice a distinctive smell from the mattress. This unpleasant smell comes from vocs (volatile organic compounds) released during off-gassing.

Hack #1: Air it out

Start by removing all packaging immediately once the mattress is delivered. Place the mattress in a well-ventilated area, preferably near an open window. Allow it to air out 48-72 hours before you start using the mattress.

Hack #2: Use activated charcoal

Place small bowls of activated charcoal near the mattress. Activated charcoal is highly effective at absorbing odours, especially those from vocs. Leave the charcoal for a couple of days to reduce that factory-fresh smell.

How to fight off mould and mildew odours?

If you live in a humid climate, your mattress may develop a damp, mouldy odour. This is not just unpleasant but can even affect your health.

Hack #1: Dry it out

Take the mattress outside on a sunny day and let it sit under direct sunlight. Sunlight acts as a natural disinfectant and helps eliminate moisture. In fact, it can even help reduce any stains or smells from your mattress.

Hack #2: Apply a hydrogen peroxide solution

Mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of dish soap and some baking soda. Shake the solution well and dab it onto the mattress. Wipe clean with damp cloth and let it air dry completely before you start using it again.

Tips to prevent mattress odours

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few habits you can adopt to keep your mattress fresh for years to come.

Use a mattress protector

Cover your mattress with a waterproof and washable mattress protector as it will guard it against spills, sweat and dust.

Wash bedding regularly

Wash your sheets, pillowcases and blankets at least once a week to prevent odour transfer to the mattress.

Rotate your mattress

Rotating your mattress every 3-6 months ensures even wear and reduces the buildup of body oils in specific areas.

Vacuum your mattress

Vacuum your mattress every month using an upholstery attachment to remove dust, dirt and allergens.

Invest in a hypoallergenic mattress

Using a mattress with hypoallergenic properties can help minimise accumulation of dust mites, microbes and allergens. All our Sleepwell mattresses feature Neem Fresche, an innovative, anti-microbial technology that protects you from dust mites, allergies and breathing disorders. Certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for natural germ protection, it is 99% effective against these allergens and remains efficacious even after multiple years and washes.

When to replace your mattress?

If you’ve tried all smelly mattress solutions and the odours still persist, it might be time to buy a new mattress. A good mattress typically lasts 7-10 years, depending on usage and care. When you’re ready to upgrade, consider exploring Sleepwell’s range of premium mattresses. With easy options to browse and buy mattress online, you can find one that fits your needs. If you’re looking for a mattress that maximises comfort and minimises odours, we recommend our Pro Nexa mattress.

Sleepwell’s Pro Nexa® conforms to the shape of the body up to 67% better, making sleep more comfortable, 32% higher pressure relief for a more relaxed sleep, and 27% faster heat dissipation, giving you fresh, humidity-free sleep as compared to conventional memory foams.

Pro Nexa Technology is patented technology and it is lab-tested and certified by RMIT University, Australia. Plus, our 3-way anti-sag® technology prevents mattress sagging over time with usage.

Final thoughts

Maintaining a fresh-smelling mattress is simpler than you think. Whether you’re learning how to get sweat smell out of mattress or tackling the peculiar new mattress smell, these deodorizing hacks will ensure your mattress remains odour-free and inviting. And when it’s time to replace your mattress, Sleepwell has your back.